Cockroaches Can Trigger Asthma and Allergies

FAIRFAX, Va. (May 6, 2013) – The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) designates May as “ National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month” – a peak season for asthma and allergy suffers due to increased pollen concentrations and other common triggers like animal dander and cockroaches.

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) warns that droppings and shed skin from cockroaches often carry bacteria and other germs. When cockroaches infest homes, these bacteria spread and become dangerous to humans – particularly children who suffer from asthma. More, cockroaches spread 33 kinds of bacteria including E coli and salmonella, six parasitic worms and more than seven other types of human pathogens.

To safeguard the home against cockroaches, the NPMA stresses the importance of keeping counters, sinks, tables and floors clean and free of clutter.